LAWRENCEVILLE, Ga. — A Texas woman, Audrey Michelle Townsend, has been sentenced to 20 years — with five years to be served in prison — for defrauding a Buford couple of $49,000 in a 2024 banking scam.
Townsend, 26, pleaded guilty to theft by taking over $25,000 and four counts of elder abuse and exploitation, according to Gwinnett County District Attorney Patsy Austin-Gatson.
The scheme began in February 2024, when Gloria Moss received a fraudulent text message that appeared to be from Chase Bank, warning of possible suspicious activity. After calling the number in the message, Moss unknowingly provided enough information for scammers to access her account.
Although she didn’t share her Social Security number, the scammers were able to execute three unauthorized transfers totaling $49,000 to an account in Cypress, Texas, under Townsend’s name.
When the Mosses reported the incident, Chase Bank initially refused to reimburse them, claiming the transactions were authorized. The couple then contacted the Gwinnett County District Attorney’s Office, which worked alongside Gwinnett County Police to subpoena banking records. They also reached out to FOX 5 Atlanta for media coverage.
In July 2024, following public exposure and investigative pressure, Chase Bank reimbursed the full amount.
During sentencing, Gloria and Gary Moss expressed forgiveness toward Townsend.
“Unscrupulous people like this defendant are looking to take advantage of vulnerable members of our community,” said DA Austin-Gatson. “It is especially egregious that she targeted a senior couple.”
Austin-Gatson also advised the public to stay cautious about financial communications:
“Always verify with your bank directly, and never respond to unsolicited messages asking for sensitive information. Contact authorities immediately if you suspect fraud.”
Townsend will serve five years in prison, with the remaining 15 years on probation.
